Patients are being asked to stay away from Cornwall's A&E department and minor injuries units unless they have an urgent medical reason to do so.

It's as global IT issues continue to cause issues in the NHS, with GP surgey booking systems not functioning properly and some non-clinical systems affected. 

However, people are being asked to still turn up to pre-booked appointments, both at hospital and with their GP, unless otherwise told.

The 999 service is still available and minor injury units, as well as the emergency department at the Royal Cornwall Hospital in Truro, are still open, but are being kept for people most in need. 

NHS Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Integrated Care Board has issued a statement to say: "Some of our NHS IT systems have been affected by global IT issues.

"We know that IT systems at some GP surgeries are impacted, and some non-clinical systems within some NHS providers.

"We kindly ask that people only call their GP surgery if they have an urgent medical reason until the issue is resolved.

"Please don't turn up at the emergency department, a minor injury unit or call NHS 111 unless you have an urgent medical reason so we can keep these services for the people who need it the most.

"We are currently investigating the situation to understand the extent of the issue and we will continue to provide updates as we know more.

During this time please continue:

  • to attend your GP or hospital appointment unless you are advised
  • to use 999 if you have a life or limb threatening emergency
  • to use your local pharmacist for many minor common conditions
  • to use NHS 111 online to get advice (please only call NHS 111 for urgent matters)

"Thank you for your understanding and for being patient with our staff, who are doing their best to ensure people with the most urgent health needs are seen first over this time."